LastSwab

Reusable Swab for LastObject

LastSwab is a reusable and sustainable alternative to single-use cotton swabs. LastSwab is designed to be used up to a thousand times and to be easy to use, easy to clean, and most importantly designed to feel like the ones we are used to using. LastSwab is made in two versions, a Basic version to replace the purpose of a cotton swab, and a Beauty version with an angled tip made for correcting make-up. Both come in a carrying case made from recycled ocean-bound plastic, which is also the material used for the rod of the swab.

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Download Press Kit № 122832 Reusable Swab for LastObject by Nicolas Aagaard to access high-res images, essential texts, translations, and exclusive interviews—all in one.

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LastSwab by Nicolas Aagaard

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Reusable Swab by Nicolas Aagaard

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Nicolas Aagaard LastSwab

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Nicolas Aagaard Reusable Swab

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LastObjectBrand Logo

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LastSwab Reusable Swab Press Releases

Press releases for LastSwab are now accessible in these languages: English.

LastSwab Reusable Swab Media Articles

Our articles on LastSwab, prepared for immediate use, are offered in several languages, including German, French, Portuguese, Dutch, Korean, Russian, Chinese (Mandarin), Spanish, English, Hindi, Indonesian, Japanese, Turkish and Arabic (Standard).

Unique Properties

LastSwab is a reusable and sustainable alternative to single-use cotton swabs. LastSwab is designed to be used up to a thousand times and to be easy to use, easy to clean, and most importantly designed to feel like the swabs we are used to. It is made in two versions, a Basic version to replace the purpose of a cotton swab, and a Beauty version with an angled tip for correcting make-up. Both come in a carrying case made from recycled ocean-bound plastic, which is also used for the rod of the swab.

Tags

Reusable, Sustainable, Swab, Buds, Q Tip, Alternative, Ocean Bound Plastic, Reuse, Reduce, Recycle, Ears

Production Technology

In collaboration with Resea Project, ocean-bound plastic is collected and driven to a factory where it is transformed into plastic pellets. Afterward, the plastic pellets are pressed through an injection mold and into molds that shape the rod. Then the rod is mechanically removed, turned, and over-molded. In the next step, the tip made of TPE is applied to the rod. Finally, the swab is put into the carrying case, which undergoes the same stage of production as the rod, only in a different mold.

Design Challenge

The hardest part is creating something new, while at the same time not forcing change upon the user. We all know how hard it is to change our habits. If you create a product that expects the user to change a habit you risk them buying it but not using it. This would defeat the purpose of LastObject. Creating something beautiful, durable, simple, environmentally friendly, and self-explanatory is also important, but less of a challenge.

Project Duration

The project started in November 2018 in Copenhagen and LastSwab launched on the crowdfunding platforms Kickstarter and IndieGoGo in April 2019. LastSwab is now available on our own website.

Operation Flow

When using LastSwab, simply take it out of the carrying case and use it for any purpose you may have. It can be used for anything that you would use a regular cotton swab for. It does not absorb water. After using it, you can clean it with hot water and soap. The beauty swab has an angled tip that is made for correcting make-up.

Research

Online search will usually lead to scientific or business reports. Ultimately we'll create several "life cycle assessment" reports for each of our products to understand the impact better. It starts with the question: Does this need to be a single-use item? We used Google and Wikipedia which then led us to more hard facts. We do user trials with prototypes. Our process is quite circular: research, design, tests, feedback, design changes, or new research and repeat.

Inspiration

Every day 1.5 billion disposable cotton swabs are produced and every year an average person uses hundreds of them. To manufacture a disposable cotton swab resources have to be taken out of the ground, moved to a production facility, produced, packaged, shipped, and then purchased by a consumer. This entire procedure requires the cotton swab to be used once and then discarded. By using LastSwab we eliminate the need to produce and use resources that are unnecessary.

Image Credits

Image #1, Photographer Tetiana Kolosko, 2021 Optional Image #1, Photographer Tetiana Kolosko, 2021 Optional Image #2, Photographer Tetiana Kolosko, 2021 Optional Image #3, Photographer Tetiana Kolosko, 2021 Optional Image #4, Photographer Tetiana Kolosko, 2021 Video Credits:Edvinas Maciulevicius and Louise B.Maciulevicius, silksocial.co, 2020

Project Overview

LastSwab Reusable Swab has been a Golden winner in the Sustainable Products, Projects and Green Design award category in the year 2020 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Gold A' Design Award is granted to designs that demonstrate a high level of innovation and a significant impact on their intended audience. Recognized as a major achievement by the A' Design Awards, these designs are characterized by their visionary approach and the exceptional skill of their creators. Winners of the Gold A' Design Award are noted for their ability to push the envelope in art, science, design, and technology, delivering solutions that not only meet but exceed expectations. These designs serve as benchmarks for excellence, encouraging further innovation and inspiring future generations of designers.

Golden Recognition

Nicolas Aagaard was recognized with the coveted Golden A' Design Award in 2021, a testament to excellence of their work LastSwab Reusable Swab.

Nicolas Aagaard Press Releases

Discover Nicolas Aagaard's journey through our press releases, available for all press members and journalists to use without restrictions. Instantly access 1 press releases, available exclusively for journalists.

LastSwab: The Reusable and Sustainable Alternative to Single-Use Cotton Swabs

LastSwab, designed by Nicolas Aagaard, is a reusable and sustainable alternative to single-use cotton swabs, aiming to reduce environmental impact. Launched in April 2019, LastSwab is now available on the designer's website, offering a durable and eco-friendly solution to everyday needs.

Nicolas Aagaard Newsroom

Explore Nicolas Aagaard Newsroom to uncover award-winning design projects and more.